Gaza Teacher’s 1,001 Wishes for Peace Amid Ongoing Conflict
As the sun sets over the war-torn streets of Gaza, English teacher Maram Al-Zaanin sits by her window, penning her 1,001st wish for peace. The Palestine-Israel conflict, which persisted throughout 2024, has plunged the Gaza Strip into an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. The relentless conflict has claimed the lives of more than 45,000 Palestinians and left over 106,000 injured.
“Every day, I see the hopes of my students dimming,” Maram shares, her voice filled with a blend of sorrow and determination. “But I believe in the power of education and the resilience of our people. We must hold onto hope for a peaceful future.”
As 2025 approaches, families across Gaza cling to the possibility of a new beginning. The impact of the prolonged conflict has been devastating, with communities struggling to access basic necessities amid the destruction.
Maram’s wishes are not just for an end to the violence but for the restoration of normalcy. “I dream of a day when our children can play freely in the streets, when classrooms are filled with laughter instead of fear,” she says.
The stories of individuals like Maram highlight the human side of the conflict—a longing for peace and a better tomorrow. While the path to resolution remains uncertain, the collective hopes of Gaza’s residents continue to shine as a beacon amidst the darkness.
“We have endured so much, but our spirit remains unbroken,” Maram affirms. “With each wish I write, I am sending a message to the world: we are here, we matter, and we believe that peace is possible.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com